Printing apparatus and method with respect to medium

ABSTRACT

A user operates the operation panel portion  6  and selects an image quality mode in a pre-stage of carrying out CD-R printing. If an operation of commencing CD-R printing on the operation panel portion  6  is enabled, the CPU  16  causes the scanner unit  21  to scan a sample CD-R  25  and takes in the image data. The CPU  16  causes the taken-in image data to be subjected to an image working process and masks pixels not required to be printed. The ASIC  20  transfers the processed image data to the printer unit  22  and executes CD-R printing. At this time, the CPU  16  carries out scanning and printing at a resolution responsive to the image quality mode.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a printing apparatus capable ofindependently printing without being connected to, for example, a hostcomputer, and a method for printing on medium.

2. Related Arts

Recently, various types of printers capable of printing images on mediumsuch as CD-R, DVD-R, etc., have been developed. In such printers, amedium on which printing is executed is set in a printer, and data ofimages to be printed are taken in a host computer. Image adjustment withrespect to the position, size and design, etc., of the image data on amedium is carried out, and the adjusted image data are transmitted to aprinter. Then, the printer carries out a printing process on the mediumon the basis of the image data, whereby a medium of attractive designlike CDs and DVDs sold on the market can be completed.

However, a machine capable of independently printing without connectionto a host computer, a so-called stand-alone machine is available as aprinter. There are some types of such stand-alone printers, for example,a type capable of duplicating, in which a scanner feature and a printerfeature are integrally incorporated, and a type having a card slot intowhich a memory card is inserted, capable of printing images by taking inimages from the memory card.

Herein, there is an idea in which a sample CD-R is scanned by using theformer type of machine, and the image is printed on a CD-R (printed on amedium). Actually, however, if this method is employed, there is aproblem in that shadow portions are printed on a CD-R due to thethickness of the sample CD-R. Also, in the latter machine type, there isno model which is capable of printing image data of a memory card 12onto a CD-R. That is, development of a printer having such a type offeature has been eagerly desired. In addition, since there are variousneeds on the users' side with respect to image quality modes where aprinter is provided with a medium-printing feature, some measures havebeen required to reflect respective modes onto the medium printing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment of the present invention provides a printingapparatus and a method for printing, which, even if a feature capable ofindependently printing on a medium as a single unit is added to a typehaving a plurality of image quality modes, are capable of securing afunction of satisfying the respective image quality modes and capable ofimproving the functionality of the apparatus.

In order to solve the above-described problem, at least one embodimentof the invention is featured in that a printing apparatus includes animage capture unit which captures a sample medium by scanning or readingdata from a memory medium and a printing unit for executing printing onthe basis of the image data captured by the capture unit, and includes aprocessing unit for processing the image data captured by the captureunit in accordance with a printing range of a medium which is a subjecton which printing is executed, an operating unit that is operated whenselecting a mode among a plurality of image quality modes, and acontrolling unit for actuating the capture unit and a print-executingunit in accordance with the image quality mode set by the operating unitand printing the image data processed by the image processing unit ontothe medium.

According to the construction, the image processing unit processes theimage data captured by the capture unit in accordance with a printingrange of a medium being a subject on which the printing is executed. Thecontrolling unit actuates the capture unit and print-executing unit onthe basis of actuation contents responsive to the image quality mode setby the operating unit and executes printing on a medium. Therefore,since, even if a feature capable of printing on a medium is added to atype having a plurality of image quality modes, the capture unit andprint-executing unit can be actuated in accordance with the imagequality mode when executing printing on a medium, functions by whichrespective image quality modes are satisfied can be secured, andfunctionality of the printing apparatus can be improved.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the capture unit is ascanner device for reading images of the sample medium by scanning,wherein the controlling unit causes the scanner device to read images ofthe sample medium at a high resolution when the high resolution isselected as the image quality mode, and at the same time, causes theprint-executing unit to print the images on the medium at a highresolution.

According to the construction, since scanning and printing can becarried out at a high resolution when the image quality mode is a highimage quality mode, it becomes possible to print clear and fine imageson a medium.

In at least one embodiment of the invention described above, the captureunit is a scanner device for reading images of the sample medium byscanning, wherein the controlling unit causes the scanner device to readimages of the sample medium at a low resolution when a high speed modeis selected as the image quality mode, and at the same time, causes theprint-executing unit to print the images on the medium at a lowresolution. According to the construction, since scan printing can becarried out at a low resolution when the image quality mode is ahigh-speed mode, it becomes possible to print images on a medium in ashort time.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the capture unit is ascanner device for reading images of the sample medium by scanning,wherein the capture unit includes a memory unit for temporarily storingimage data obtained by scanning of the scanner device, a measuring unitfor measuring or metering the available memory volume of the memoryunit, and a determining unit for determining whether or not theavailable memory volume of the memory unit decreases below a thresholdvalue, and the controlling unit causes the scanner device to read imagesof the sample medium at a low resolution when it is determined on thebasis of a result of determination made by the determining unit that theavailable memory volume of the memory unit is lower than the thresholdvalue.

According to the construction, where the available memory volume of thememory unit decreases below the threshold value and the available memoryvolume of the memory unit is slight, scanning is carried out at a lowresolution. If the available memory volume is not available in thememory unit for storing scanned image data, the scanner device stops inthe process of scanning. However, since scanning is executed at a lowresolution where the available memory volume of the memory unit isslight, the data volume captured by the scanner device also becomes onlyslight, wherein no shortage occurs in the memory even if the availablememory volume is slight, and there is no inconvenience by which thescanner device stops in the process.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the controlling unit causesthe scanner device to read the images of the sample medium at a lowresolution where it is determined on the basis of the result ofdetermination made by the determining unit that the remaining memoryvolume of the memory unit is lower than the threshold value, and causesthe print-executing unit to print the images on a medium at a resolutionresponsive to the image quality mode set by the operating unit.According to the construction, even if the available memory volume ofthe memory unit is short, printing on a medium can be carried out at animage level responsive to the image quality mode set by a user.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the image data of thesample medium, which are captured by the scanner device, includes shadowportions produced by a scanning process around the outer circumferenceof the corresponding sample medium, and the image processing unit maskspixels of the shadow portions of the image data, and brings about datafree from any color with respect to the medium when executing printing.According to the construction, when a sample medium is scanned by ascanner device, shadow portions of the sample medium are unavoidablyproduced in the image data. However, since the pixels of the shadowportions of the sample medium, which are produced by scanning, aremasked, no shadow portion (black-colored portion) is printed on a mediumwhen executing printing on the medium.

At least one embodiment of the invention is featured in that a methodfor recording on a medium used in a printing apparatus includes acapture unit for capturing images of a sample medium by scanning orreading data from a memory medium and an executing unit for executingprinting on the basis of the image data captured by the capture unit,wherein image processing unit processes the image data captured by thecapture unit in accordance with a printing range of a medium which is asubject on which printing is executed, and controlling unit actuates thecapture unit and print-executing unit in accordance with the imagequality mode set by the operating unit and prints the image dataprocessed by the image processing unit onto the medium.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a printer according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of theprinter;

FIG. 3 is a descriptive view regarding image data acquired bypre-scanning;

FIG. 4 is a descriptive view showing pixel data acquired by regularscanning;

FIGS. 5( a) is a conceptual view of a template, and (b) is a table forscan printing;

FIG. 6 is a descriptive view showing non-printing portions of the pixeldata;

FIG. 7 is a screen view of an LCD when carrying out card printing;

FIG. 8 is a descriptive view showing pixel data acquired when data areexpanded;

FIG. 9 is table for card printing;

FIG. 10 is a descriptive view for printing a plurality of images onto asingle CD-R;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart for printing on CD-R based on scanning; and

FIG. 12 is a flow chart for printing on CD-R based on card reading.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, a description is given of one embodiment of a printingapparatus and a method for printing on a medium, in which the presentinvention is embodied.

As shown in FIG. 1, a printer 1 serving as a printing apparatus is anink jet type stand-alone printer capable of independently executingprinting without being connected to a host computer. The printer 1 iscapable of scan printing (duplicating) in which it scans a document(sample) placed on a document table 3 on the upper surface of a case 2,processes the document for printing, and delivers a sheet 4 of paperthrough a delivery port 5. Also, the printer 1 is also capable ofscanning and reading by which scanned image data (scan data) aretransmitted and printing print data are received from a host computerand outputting the same.

An operating panel portion 6 is disposed on the case 2 of the printer 1.An LCD (liquid crystal display) 7 and various types of switches 8, whichare an operating unit, are disposed on the operating panel portion 6.The LCD 7 displays a menu function, printing conditions, operationcontents, operating status, error contents, etc., of the printer 1. Inaddition, various types of switches 8 are a power source button 9 forturning on and off the power source, a selection button 10 for selectinga printing mode of the printer 1, and a printing start button 11 (twobuttons for color and monochrome printing), which is pressed to commencea duplicating process and a scanning process.

A card slot 13 into which a memory card 12 being a memory medium isinserted is disposed at the right side lower part of the front side ofthe case 2. Images picked up by a digital camera, etc., are stored inthe memory card 12 as image data of digital signals. The printer 1 readsthe image data of the memory card 12 inserted into the card slot 13 andis capable of executing card printing by which the images selected fromthe images by operating the switches 8 are printed and outputted.

The printer 1 is also capable of executing CD-R printing which carriesout a printing process on a CD-R 14 being a medium. In detail, a flatplate-shaped CD-R tray 15 which is a separate component from the printer1 is prepared; and the CD-R 14 is placed in the hole portion 15a on aCD-R tray 15. And, the CD-R tray 15 is set in the printer 1. After that,the CD-R printing mode is selected by the selection button 10, and atthe same time, the print starting button 11 is pressed to commenceprinting, wherein a printing process is executed with the upper surfaceof the CD-R 14 used as a printing range.

As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 1 is provided with a CPU 16 in charge ofmain control. A ROM 18, RAM 19 for the CPU and ASIC 20 are connected tothe CPU 16 via a bus 17. Also, the printer 1 is provided with a scannerunit 21 and a printer unit 22. The scanner unit 21 has an exposure lamp,CCD sensor, pulse motor, etc., and is connected to the bus 17 via ascanner input circuit 23. In addition, the printer unit 22 has a head,carriage motor, paper feeding motor, drive circuit, etc., and isconnected to the bus 17. Further, the capture unit (scanner device)includes the scanner unit 21 and scanner input circuit 23. Theprint-executing unit has the printer unit 22.

The ROM 18 stores a control program for controlling the printer 1,scanner control parameters for driving the scanner unit 21, and printercontrol parameters for driving the printer unit 22, etc. The ROM 18 alsostores a medium print-executing program which is executed by the CPU 16when executing CD-R printing. Also, the image processing unit, ameasuring unit and a determining unit includes the CPU 16 and mediumprint-executing programs, and the controlling unit has the CPU 16, ASIC20 and medium print-executing programs.

A RAM 24 serving as a memory unit for ASIC is connected to the ASIC 20.The ASIC 20 carries out image processings on the image data picked up byscanning and image data read from the memory card 12, and transmits theimage data to the head of the printer unit 22. The CPU 16 controls thescanner unit 21 via the scanner input circuit 23 on the basis of thescanner control parameters when actuating the scanner. When processingfor printing, the CPU 16 controls the printer unit 22 on the basis ofthe processed image data and the printer control parameters and controlsreading of the data when reading image data of the memory card 12.

Next, a description is given of CD-R printing by scanning in astand-alone machine. First, a sample CD-R 25 serving as a sample mediumis set on the document table 3, and simultaneously the CD-R tray 15 onwhich a non-printed CD-R 14 is placed is set in the printer.Subsequently, the printing mode is set to the CD-R printing mode by theselection button 10, the printing method in the mode is set to thescanning printing. In addition, the image quality mode is selectedbetween the high image quality mode and high-speed mode. If the printingstart button 11 is pressed in this state, the CPU 16 executes the CD-Rprinting described below on the basis of the medium print-executingprogram of the ROM 18.

Where the high image quality mode is selected in the image quality mode,first, the CPU 16 causes the scanner unit 21 to execute pre-scanning,and captures the image data 26 shown in FIG. 3. Based on the image data26, it is determined on which part of the document table 3 the sampleCD-R 25 is placed. Herein, since shadow portions (diagonal portionsshown in FIG. 3) 27 are scanned if the sample CD-R 25 is scanned, theCD-R image 28 including the shadow portions 27 is determined to be thesample CD-R 25 in the image data 26. Further, since it is possible todistinguish the CD-R image 28 from the portion 29 which is not the CD-Rimage 28, the position of the sample CD-R 25 on the document table 3 canbe understood by checking the outline of the CD-R image 28.

Continuously, the CPU 16 determines the regular scanning area on thebasis of the scanning result of the pre-scanning. That is, the minimumsquare area (the area shown with broken lines in FIG. 3) in which theCD-R image 28 including the shadow portions 27 of the sample CD-R 25 isdetermined as the regular scanning area. The CPU 16 causes the scannerunit 21 to execute regular scanning, and reads the image data of theportion surrounded by the area shown with broken lines in FIG. 3 at thememory resolution (scanning resolution) responsive to the image qualitymode. Herein, since the image quality mode is a high image quality mode,the sample CD-R 25 is scanned at the memory resolution X1 with a highresolution. The CPU 16 sequentially transfers the image data, which areread by the regular scanning, to the RAM 24 of the ASIC 20 line by line.

Here, the ASIC 20 re-arranges the image data equivalent to one line,which are written in the RAM 24, in a sequence that composes one rasterline when the head scans, and transfers the same to the RAM 19 of theCPU 16. The transfer process is repeated until the process is completedfor all the lines of the image data. Thereby, pixel data (RGB data) 30,shown in FIG. 4, responsive to the memory resolution X1 are generated inthe RAM 19. The pixel data 30 includes pixels 30 a of the shadowportions 27 of the sample CD-R 25, which are produced when scanning.

After the transfer process is completed, the CPU 16 carries out an imageworking process in regard to the pixel data 30 written in the RAM 19.Hereinafter, a detailed description is given thereof. A plurality oftemplates T (in this example; two templates), shown in FIG. 5( a);responsive to the diameter size of the CD-R 14 are stored in the ROM 18.The templates T of this example are a template Ta whose diameter is a 12cm size and a template Tb whose diameter is an 8 cm size.

A table TB1 for scan printing, which is shown in FIG. 5( b), having maskinformation K for each of templates Ta and Tb written is stored in theROM 18. The mask information K designates unnecessary pixels forprinting when printing on the CD-R 14. The information determines towhich pixels ink is not discharged to be white data, with the centerpoint (center pixel) 30 b of the CD-R used as the basis point on thepixel data 30 shown in FIG. 4. With respect to the mask information K ofthe example, Ka and Kb are stored in accordance with the respectivetemplates Ta and Tb, and the mask information K designates respectivepixels of the shadow portions 27 of the pixel data 30 shown in FIG. 6,the middle hole portion 31 of the sample CD-R 25, and outside portions(four corners) of the shadow portions 27.

The CPU 16 carries out a matching process using the template T as animage working process, compares the CD-R image (image including theshadow portions 27) of the pixel data 30 with the template T, anddetermines the size of the sample CD-R 25. In the present example, it isassumed that the size of the CD-R is a 12 cm size. Continuously, the CPU16 obtains the number of pixels with respect to the ordinate andabscissa of the pixel data 30 as shown in FIG. 4 and calculates anintersection point between a line La, on which the intermediate pixel inthe ordinate is positioned, and a line Lb, on which the intermediatepixel in the abscissa is positioned, as the center point 30 b of theCD-R image 28.

After the center point 30 a is calculated the CPU 16 carries out amasking process with reference to the table TB1 and establishesunnecessary portions of printing of the respective pixels of the pixeldata 30 as white data (that is, data for which no ink is discharged).That is, using the mask information Ka of the table TB1, the CPU 16recognizes the shadow portions 27, middle hole portion 31, and outsideportion 32, which are shown in FIG. 6 and are not necessary to beprinted, on the basis of the center point 30 b of the CD-R image 28, andsets these pixels as white data to which no ink is discharged. And, theCPU 16 transmits the pixel data 30 to the ASIC 20 after the maskingprocess is over.

The ASIC 20 executes an image processing on the pixel data 30 andgenerates head drive data in which data are arranged in the sequence ofink discharge. Hereinafter, a detailed description is given thereof.First, the ASIC 20 converts the pixel data 30 inputted by scanning to aprinting resolution responsive to the image quality mode. Herein, sincethe image quality mode is set to a high image quality mode, the pixeldata 30 are converted to the high resolution as the printing resolution.

The ASIC 20 binarizes the RGB-based pixel data and converts the same toYMCK-based pixel data (YMCK data). Continuously, the ASIC 20 executes amicroweaving process of the YMCK data and generates head drive dataequivalent to one scan, which is to be processed for printing when thehead scans one time. The head drive data are binary data for instructingdischarge or non-discharge of ink to respective nozzles of the head anda discharge amount thereof thereto, wherein no ink is discharged to thepixels masked in the masking process.

A description is given of the microweaving process. Since the head ofthe printer unit 22 forms dots at the nozzle pitch in the feedingdirection of paper 4 (the subscanning direction), rasters of continuousnumbers cannot be formed by the main scanning carried out at one time.Therefore, the raster forming positions are shifted whenever formingrasters while forming a plurality of rasters at intervals of the nozzlepitch in respective main scanning, and spaces between the rasters arefilled by other rasters, and, finally, continuous rasters are formed.This process is called a “microweaving process.”

After that, whenever head drive data equivalent to scanning of one timeare stored in the RAM 24, the ASIC 20 outputs the stored data to theprinter unit 22 one after another. The CPU 16 drives the head on thebasis of the head drive data, and at the same time, executes printing onthe CD-R 14 by driving a carriage motor and a paper feeding motor on thebasis of the printer control parameters. Through the above-describedprocedure, an image is printed on the CD-R 14 with no shadow portionprovided and unnecessary portions decolored.

Herein, since the image quality mode is a high image quality mode, it isnecessary that the image printed on the CD-R 14 is sharp and fine.Therefore, in the case of the high image quality mode, it is composedthat the sample CD-R 25 is scanned at a high resolution (memoryresolution X1) and the image is printed on the CD-R 14 at a highresolution (printing resolution Y1), wherein it becomes possible that animage is printed on the CD-R 14 at an image level in which a high imagequality mode is enabled.

However, since the RAM 24 is used for operations other than thescanning, it is considered that the available memory amount M becomesshort when scanning is executed. Therefore, the CPU 16 minutely checksthe available memory amount M of the RAM 24 of the ASIC 20. When the CPU16 determines that the available memory amount M is reduced below thepredetermined threshold value Ma and is slight at the moment whencommencing scanning, an image in the regular scanning area is read at alow memory resolution X2 (<X1) in the regular scanning. Thereby, itbecomes possible to secure and store the scanned image data even if theavailable memory amount M is slight, and such an inconvenience does notoccur, which causes the scanning to be interrupted in process due to acause of memory shortage in the RAM 24.

On the other hand, where a high-speed mode is selected as the imagequality mode, the CPU 16 causes pre-scanning and regular scanning to becarried out. However, the image data in the regular scanning area shownwith broken lines in FIG. 3 are read at the memory resolution X2 with alow resolution in the regular scanning. As described above, since theimage is scanned at a low resolution, the scanning time can beshortened. And, as in the high image quality mode, the CPU 16 carriesout an image working process on the image data captured by the regularscanning and transfers the pixel data 30, for which pixels unnecessaryfor printing are masked, to the ASIC 20. The ASIC 20 carries out animage processing on the pixel data 30 and generates head drive data atthe printing resolution Y2 (<Y1) with a low resolution.

Whenever the ASIC 20 generates the head drive data corresponding toone-time scanning of the head, the ASIC 20 transfers the same to theprinter unit 20. The CPU 16 drives the head on the basis of the headdrive data transferred by the ASIC 20, and at the same time, executesprinting on the CD-R 14 by driving the carriage motor and paper feedingmotor on the basis of the printer control parameters. Therefore, sinceprinting is carried out at a low resolution, the printing time isshortened. In addition, memory resolutions X1 and X2 are changed byvarying the scanning speed, etc., and the printing resolutions Y1 and Y2are changed by varying the head scanning speed and paper feeding rate.

Next, a description is given of CD-R printing by card reading in astand-alone machine. A user inserts a memory card 12 into a card slot13, and selects an image (sample image) desired to be printed out fromimages of the memory card 12. Using various types of switches 8, aprinting image 33 and its layout information R are set by moving theprinting image 33 in the up and down directions, and left and rightdirections with respect the reference position of printing (CD-R 14), orchanging its printing size by enlargement or contraction as shown inFIG. 7. At this time, the diameter size of the CD-R 14 to be printed isestablished.

After these conditions are established, the printing mode is set to theCD-R printing mode by operating the selection button 10, and theprinting method in the mode is set to a card printing method, that is, amethod for printing on the CD-R 14 on the basis of the image data readfrom the memory card 12. If the printing start button 11 is pressedafter various types of printing conditions are established, the CPU 16executes CD-R printing, which is described below, on the basis of amedium print-executing program of the ROM 18.

First, the CPU 16 reads layout information R set by the user, anddetermines the position and printing size on the CD-R 14 of the printingimage 33. Continuously, the CPU 16 reads the printing image 33 from thememory card 12. The CPU 16 develops the read image data in accordancewith the position and printing size based on the layout information R,and generates pixel data (RGB data) 34, shown in FIG. 8, the range ofwhich is the minimum square in which the CD-R 14 can be accommodated.The pixel data 34 includes the middle hole portion 31 and the outsideportion 32 of the CD-R image, which are unnecessary for printing.However, no shadow portion 27 is provided.

Also, the ROM 18 includes a table TB2 for card printing, which is shownin FIG. 9. The mask information K of the table TB2 is stored as Kc andKd in accordance with the diameter sizes Sa (12 cm) and Sb (8 cm) of theCD-R 14, and is the information designating pixels of the middle holeportion 31 of the pixel data 34 shown in FIG. 8 and the pixels of theoutside portion 32 of the CD-R image 28. Where the size of the CD-R 14is determined to be Sa, the CPU 16 executes a masking process on thebasis of the mask information Kc by the method similar to that in thecase of scan printing, wherein portions unnecessary to be printed out ofthe pixel data 34 are set to be white data (data for which no ink isdischarged).

In addition, the CPU 16 transfers the mask-processed pixel data 34 tothe ASIC 20. The ASIC 20 executes an image processing on the pixel data30 and generates head drive data at a printing resolution Y1 of a highresolution. If described in detail below, the ASIC 20 executes aresolution converting process, binarizing process and microweavingprocess with respect to pixel data 34 inputted by card reading, therebysequentially generating head drive data equivalent to one-time scanning.Also, as soon as the head drive data corresponding to one-time scanningare stored in the RAM 24, the ASIC 20 outputs the same to the printerunit 22 one after another, and causes the printer unit 22 to executeCD-R printing.

Further, where it is set that a plurality of images are printed on asingle CD-R 14 in the card printing, the CPU 16 processes thecombination information as layout information R, and a plurality ofimages are printed on the CD-R 14 as a single image on the basis of thelayout information R. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, where fourimages are combined and printed thereon, images arranged two by two inboth vertical and horizontal directions are recognized as a singleimage. An image working process and an image processing, etc., arecarried out with respect to the image, and head drive data necessary forCDR printing are generated, wherein an image corresponding to the fourimages is printed on the CD-R.

Next, a description is given of procedures for executing CD-R printingby scanning by CPU 16, in accordance with a flow chart shown in FIG. 11.

In Step 100, prescanning is carried out, whereby it is determined onwhich part of the document table a sample CD-R is placed.

In Step 101, a regular scanning area is determined. That is, althoughshadow portions 27 of the sample CD-R are captured when scanning, theminimum square area (the area shown with broken lines in FIG. 3) inwhich the CD-R image 28 including the shadow portions 27 is covered isdetermined as the regular scanning area.

In Step 102, the available memory amount M of the RAM 24 of the ASIC 20is calculated.

In Step 103, it is determined whether or not the available memory amountM calculated in Step 103 is lower then the threshold value Ma. If M<Mais established, the process advances to Step 104, and if M≧Ma isestablished, the process advances to Step 106.

In Step. 104, the image quality mode is determined. That is, it isdetermined which image quality mode of a high image quality mode or ahigh-speed mode is selected. Herein, if the high image quality mode isselected, the process advances to Step 105, and if the high-speed modeis selected, the process advances to Step 106.

In Step 105, high resolution scanning is set. That is, the memoryresolution (scanning resolution) is set to X1 the resolution of which ishigh.

In Step 106, low resolution scanning is set. That is, the memoryresolution (scanning resolution) is set to X2 the resolution of which islow.

In Step 107, regular scanning is commenced. That is, the entire scanningarea of the sample CD-R placed on the document table 3 is scanned at aresolution responsive to the image quality mode.

In Step 108, image data are transferred to the RAM 24 of the ASIC 20.

In Step 109, image data are transferred to the RAM 19 of the CPU 16.

In Step 110, it is determined whether or not the data transfer iscompleted. If the transfer is completed, pixel data (RGB data) 30, shownin FIG. 4, responsive to the size of the sample CD-R 25 are generated.Here, if the data transfer is completed, the process advances to Step111, and if not, the process returns to Step 107, wherein the datatransfer is continued.

In Step 111, an image working process is executed with respect to thepixel data 30 written in the RAM 19 of the CPU 16. Here, the centerpoint 30 b of the pixel data 30 is determined by a matching process.Based thereon, a masking process is carried out to mask portionsunnecessary to be printed in the pixel data 30.

In Step 112, the ASIC 20 is caused to execute a resolution convertingprocess. That is, scanned pixel data 30 are converted to a printingresolution in accordance with the image quality mode, wherein, when ahigh image quality mode is employed, the data are converted to theprinting resolution Y1 with a high resolution, and when a high-speedmode is employed, the data are converted to the printing resolution Y2with a low resolution.

In Step 113, the ASIC 20 is caused to execute a binarizing process,wherein RGB-based pixel data 30 are converted to YMCK data.

In Step 114, the ASIC 20 is caused to execute a microweaving process.

In Step 115, the pixel data 30 subjected to the microweaving process areoutputted to the printer unit 22 and CD-R printing is carried out.

Next, a description is given of procedures for the CPU 16 to executeCD-R printing by card reading, with reference to a flow chart shown inFIG. 12.

In Step 200, layout information R established by a user is read.

In Step 201, image data are read from the memory card 12. That is, imagedata of an image pointed out by a user are read from the memory card 12.

In Step 202, the image data are developed on the basis of the layoutinformation R. That is, the read image data are developed in accordancewith the position and printing size based on the layout information R,thereby generating pixel data (RGB data) 34, shown in FIG. 8, with theminimum square used as a range, in which the CD-R 14 is accommodated.

In Steps 203 through 207 processes similar to those in Steps 111 through115 described above are carried out.

According to the present example, although a shadow portion 27 isproduced in the image data of the scanned sample CD-R 25 due to thethickness thereof, the pixels of the shadow portions 27 are masked to bewhite data for which no ink is discharged. In addition thereto, pixelscorresponding to the hole portion 31 and the outside portion 32 of theCD-R 14, which are not required to be printed, are also masked.Therefore, even if CD-R is printed by scanning, portions not required tobe printed such as the shadow portions 27, hole portion 31 and outsideportion 32 are not outputted or printed, and only the images to beprojected are printed on the CD-R 14.

Also, only portions, required for CD-R printing, of the image data readfrom the memory card 12 are taken out and the data there are developed.The data are image-processed and printed on the CD-R 14. Therefore, noink is discharged on the portions not required to be printed, and onlythe images to be projected are printed on the CD-R 14 as in the scanprinting. Based on the above description, the scanned image and imageread from the memory card 12 can be outputted and printed on the CD-R 14in a favorable state.

Further, there are two types in the image quality modes of the printer1, one of which is a high image quality mode and the other of which is ahigh-speed mode. In the high image quality mode, it is necessary toprint sharp and fine images on the CD-R 14, and, in the high-speed mode,it is necessary to shorten the printing time. Therefore, when the highimage quality mode is employed, scanning and printing are carried out ata high resolution, and when the high-speed mode is employed, scanningand printing are carried out at a low resolution. Operation contents ofthe scanner unit 21 and printer unit 22 are altered in accordance withthe respective modes. Therefore, even if CD-R printing is independentlyenabled by a single printer, functions which are satisfied by therespective modes are secured, and functionality of the printer 1 isimproved.

According to the above-described embodiments, the following effects canbe brought about.

(1) Such a composition is employed, in which image data 26 captured byscanning and card reading are subjected to image processing, pixels notrequired to be printed are masked, and CD-R printing is carried out onthe basis of the data thus obtained. Therefore, it is possible toexecute CD-R printing by a stand-alone machine employing scan printingand card printing. Also, since the operation contents of the scannerunit 21 and printer unit 22 can be altered in accordance with the imagequality modes (high image quality mode and high-speed mode), functionswhich are satisfied by the respective modes, that is, high image qualityprinting in the high image quality mode, shortening of the printingtimes in the high-speed mode are secured, and the functionality of theprinter 1 is improved.

(2) Such current situations exist, in which when the RAM (line buffer)24 for accommodating the scanned image data 26 becomes short in terms ofmemory, the scanning is interrupted at that time, and a normal scanningprocess cannot be carried out. However, since scanning is carried out ata low resolution when the available memory amount M is determined andthe available memory amount M becomes lower than the threshold value Ma,only the amount of data captured by the scanning may be slight, whereinthere is no inconvenience that the scanning is interrupted due toshortage of the memory. In addition, since printing is carried out at aprinting resolution responsive to the image quality mode in the case ofa shortage in memory, CD-R printing can be carried out at an image levelresponsive to respective image modes even under a condition where it isdetermined that the memory is short.

(3) It is composed that the ROM 18 is provided with tables TB1 and TB2in which mask information K is written for each of the sizes (in thisexample, two sizes) of the CD-R 14, and a masking process is carried outon the basis of these tables TB1 and TB2. Therefore, images of thesample CD-R 25, which are captured by scanning, and images read from thememory card 12 can be printed in different sizes of CD-R 14.

(4) Where card printing is carried out, the position of the printingimage in the up, down, left and right directions and printing sizethereof, which are established by the operation panel portion 6 arereflected on the CD-R printing. Therefore, it is possible for a user toexecute CD-R printing at the printing position and printing size inaccordance with his/her needs.

(5) When the card printing is carried out, since it is possible torecognize a plurality of images as a single printing image, a printingimage in which a plurality of images are combined can be printed on theCD-R 14.

(6) Since the printer 1 has both the scanner feature and card-readingfeature, it is possible to carry out scan-printing and card-reading andprinting with a single unit of the printer 1.

Furthermore, the above-described embodiment may be subjected to thefollowing modifications.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 1

The sizes of the CD-R 14 are not limited to two types. The size(s) maybe one type or three or more types.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 2

The sample medium is not limited to a CD-R. For example, medium otherthan the CD-R, such as, for example, DVD-R, etc., may be employed. Thesample medium is not limited to a medium, in which digital signals canbe written, such as a CD-R. It may be a medium if it has a thickness tosuch a degree that shadow portions are produced when scanning.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 3

The image quality mode is not limited to two types which are high imagequality mode and high-speed mode, and other mode(s) may be employed. Forexample, the mode(s) may be three or more types for which the high imagequality mode is made to have multiple steps.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 4

When the image quality mode is a high-speed mode and the RAM 24 is shortin memory in scanning, the scanning is not limited to low resolutionscanning (memory resolution X2). The memory resolutions at this time maybe values differing from each other.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 5

It may be composed that threshold values Ma which are used to determinethe memory storage of the RAM 24 in scanning are stepwise provided in aplurality and the sample CD-R 25 is scanned at memory resolutionsresponsive to the result of determination. That is, where it isdetermined that the memory capacity becomes lower than the lowestthreshold value Ma, the scanning is carried out at the lowest memoryresolution, and where it is determined that the memory capacity is lowerthan the second lowest threshold value Ma, the scanning is carried outat the second lowest memory resolution.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 6

When the RAM 24 is short in memory when scanning, the printing is notlimited to printing at a printing resolution responsive to the imagequality mode at that time. For example, the entire image is outputtedand printed at a low resolution regardless of the image quality mode.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 7

The CD-R tray 15 is not limited to a component which is separate fromthe printer 1. For example, it may be a type integrally formed with theprinter 1.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 8

It is not necessary that the printer 1 has both a scanner feature and acard-reading feature as a single unit. It may be provided with eitherone of these.

Next, a description is given below of the technical idea or thoughtwhich can be comprehended from the above-described embodiment andmodified examples along with the effects thereof.

(1) In the invention, the above-described sample medium is shaped to belike a circular disk as its outer shape and to have a hole portion atthe center thereof, and the above-described image processing unit maskspixels of the shadow portions of the above-described sample medium,central hole portion (31) thereof and outside portion (32) of the shadowportions, which are portions not required to be printed, and makes thepixels into data for which no color is provided on the medium whenprinting.

(2) The invention is provided with unit (16) for identifying sizes ofthe sample medium, and the image processing unit masks the pixels of theshadow portions responsive to the size of the above-described samplemedium of the image data on the basis of the result of identificationmade by the identifying unit.

(3) In the invention, the capture unit is a reading device (13) whichtakes in images by reading image data stored in the above-describedmemory medium.

(4) In the invention, the above-described image processing unit sets anarea corresponding to the printing area of the above-described imagedata read by the reading device as an area to be printed, on the basisof the printed area of the above-described medium, which is a subject tobe printed, and on the basis of the result of setting, the imageprocessing unit develops image data of pixels corresponding to theabove-described printing area, and, when printing, masks pixelsprotruding from the above-described medium as portions not required tobe printed.

(5) In the invention, the operating unit is operated when selecting andsetting layout information (R) of an image printed onto theabove-described medium, and the above-described image processing unitdevelops image data of pixels corresponding to the above-describedprinting area by reflecting the layout on the basis of theabove-described layout information (R) set by the above-describedoperating unit.

1. A printing method for executing printing on the basis of a scanned image data by scanning image data, comprising the steps of: scanning image data at a predetermined scanning mode; selecting an image quality mode for printing; determining a scanning mode in accordance with the image quality mode; and executing the printing by using the determined scanning mode and the selected image quality mode, wherein pixels of a shadow portion of the scanned image data are masked so that the pixels of a shadow portion become data for which no color is formed on the medium when printing.
 2. The printing method as set forth in claim 1, wherein when a high image quality mode is selected as the image quality mode, the image is read at a high resolution when carrying out the scanning, and the read image is printed on the medium at a high resolution.
 3. The printing method as set forth in claim 2, comprising the steps of: temporarily storing the scanned image data in a memory portion; measuring an available memory amount in the memory portion; and determining whether or not the available memory amount of the memory portion is smaller than a threshold value, wherein when it is determined on the basis of the determination result obtained in the determining step that the available memory amount in the memory portion is smaller than the threshold value, the scanner unit scans an image of the sample medium at a low resolution.
 4. The printing method as set forth in claim 1, wherein when a high-speed mode is selected as the image quality mode, the image is read at a low resolution in the scanning, and the read image is printed on the medium at a low resolution.
 5. The printing method as set forth in claim 4, comprising the steps of: temporarily storing the scanned image data in a memory portion; measuring an available memory amount in the memory portion; and determining whether or not the available memory amount of the memory portion is smaller than a threshold value, wherein when it is determined on the basis of the determination result obtained in the determining step that the available memory amount in the memory portion is smaller than the threshold value, the scanner unit scans an image of the sample medium at a low resolution.
 6. The printing method as set forth in claim 1, comprising the steps of: temporarily storing the scanned image data in a memory portion; measuring an available memory amount in the memory portion; and determining whether or not the available memory amount of the memory portion is smaller than a threshold value, wherein when it is determined on the basis of the determination result obtained in the determining step that the available memory amount in the memory portion is smaller than the threshold value, the scanner unit scans an image of the sample medium at a low resolution.
 7. The printing method as set forth in claim 6, comprising the steps of: temporarily storing the scanned image data in a memory portion; measuring the available memory amount in the memory portion; and determining whether or not the available memory amount in the memory portion is smaller than the threshold value, wherein when it is determined on the basis of the determination result obtained in the determining step that the remaining memory amount in the memory portion is smaller than the threshold value, the scanner unit scans an image of the sample medium at a low resolution, and a medium printing is carried out at a resolution corresponding to the selected image quality mode.
 8. The printing method as set forth in claim 1, wherein the shadow portion corresponds to edge portions of a medium.
 9. A printing device, comprising: a scanning portion, which scans image data at a predetermined scanning mode; a selecting portion, which selects an image quality mode for printing: a determining portion, which determines a scanning mode in accordance with the image quality mode; and a printing portion, which executes printing on the basis of the scanned image data by using the determined scanning mode and the selected image quality mode, wherein pixels of a shadow portion of the scanned image data are masked so that the pixels of a shadow portion becomes data for which no color is formed on the medium when printing.
 10. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing printing on the basis of a scanned image data, the program comprising: a code for a step of scanning image data at a predetermined scanning mode; a code for a step of selecting an image quality mode for printing; a code for a step of determining a scanning mode in accordance with the image quality mode; and a code for a step of executing the printing by using the determined scanning mode and the selected image quality mode, wherein pixels of a shadow portion of the scanned image data are masked so that the pixels of a shadow portion becomes data for which no color is formed on the medium when printing.
 11. A printing method for executing printing on the basis of a scanned image data by scanning image data, comprising the steps of: scanning image data at a predetermined scanning mode; selecting an image quality mode for printing; determining a scanning mode in accordance with the image quality mode; and executing the printing by using the determined scanning mode and the selected image quality mode; temporarily storing the scanned image data in a memory portion; measuring an available memory amount in the memory portion; and determining whether or not the available memory amount of the memory portion is smaller than a threshold value, wherein when it is determined on the basis of the determination result obtained in the determining step that the available memory amount in the memory portion is smaller than the threshold value, the scanner unit scans an image of the sample medium at a low resolution. 